“I love Scott – that’s my boy!” exclaimed Scott S., one of Woods Services’ Direct Support Professionals (DSP).
This is a story of two Scotts – Scott Jr. and Scott S.
Scott Jr. is diagnosed with multiple, severe behavioral disorders that his parents had tried to manage for years. Before he came to Woods seven years ago, he was prone to uncontrollable, threatening behavior that led to frequent hospital visits. Like many of Woods’ families, Scott’s parents finally had to face the reality that their child was in crisis and needed professional care outside their home.
Scott Jr. arrived at Woods in December 2015. From the initial consultation, his parents felt immediate relief knowing their son would receive everything he needs to thrive. “The Direct Support Professionals at Woods are wonderful,” said Scott’s mother. “They work very hard to bring out the best in our son every day.” One DSP they are most grateful for is Scott S. “He goes above and beyond for our son, creating a bond and level of care that we could only hope for.”
Scott S. has worked as a DSP at Woods for an impressive 20 years, and has cared for Scott Jr. for the last five years. When he first witnessed Scott Jr.’s extremely challenging behaviors, he was determined to find ways to reduce them. He found that creating a bond with Scott Jr. and gaining his trust is the key to getting the best out of him. “Scott Jr. is incredibly funny,” said Scott S. “I knew if I could make him laugh and connect with him using humor, we would be successful.”
In addition to using humor, Scott S. has also connected with Scott Jr. through music. Singing and dancing to their favorite tunes together helps redirect challenging behaviors. “These can be really sweet moments,” said Scott S.
“I know it makes a difference when you really care . . . then work doesn’t feel like work anymore!”
The creative ways in which Scott S. has approached Scott Jr.’s challenges have helped him thrive. Said Scott’s mother, “We visit Scott bi-weekly, either at home or at Woods. The experiences we now have with him are positive, and we are celebrating this past year as he has earned his diploma and graduated high school at Woods!”
